OLYMPIA - A Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife officer could face internal disciplinary action after he allegedly shot and killed an antelope while on a hunting trip in Montana and neglected to remove the animal from the field.

The officer was cited by Montana officials for misdemeanor animal wastage following a hunting trip last month with a companion in eastern Montana, according to WDFW Enforcement Chief Bruce Bjork.

His companion, who also works as a WDFW enforcement officer, was not cited by Montana officials.

Bjork said the officer, an 11-year veteran of the department, forfeited bail after receiving the citation. The officer voluntarily notified his WDFW superiors about the incident, Bjork said.

An internal Department investigation into the incident is underway. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the officer could face a range of disciplinary actions, including termination, Bjork said.